Bandit Leader Frees 28 Abductees In Katsina After Peace Accord

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Twenty-eight people abducted by suspected bandits in Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State have been released without ransom, following a peace agreement with a notorious kingpin.

The captives were freed on Wednesday by the group led by its commander, identified as Isya Akwashi Garwa, and handed over to council officials.

According to reports by Zagazola, those released were mainly residents of Mairua, Kanen-Haki and Yar Dabaru communities.

Local authorities confirmed that the release was the outcome of a reconciliation initiative aimed at restoring peace and curbing violent attacks in the area.

Community leaders in Faskari welcomed the development as a “positive sign”, urging both parties to sustain the peace process. They also appealed to the kingpin to prevail on other bandits still carrying out assaults in the area to desist.

A council official, who requested anonymity, said: “The captives were released this afternoon without any ransom being paid. The bandit leader fulfilled his promise under the peace talks.”

Residents expressed relief over the safe return of the abductees, while some called for stronger security measures to consolidate the fragile peace.